The Golden Lions insist that John Mitchell will continue as their coach after being cleared of misconduct.

The former All Blacks head coach was reinstated as after being found not guilty of all complaints of misconduct levelled at him earlier this year. Reports continue to link him with a return to Sale Sharks, where he has been acting as a consultant in recent weeks and was also given a role on the club's rugby strategy management board.

But in a statement the Golden Lions Rugby Union (GLRU) insisted Mitchell would be leading training when the players return for pre-season next week, putting the possibility of a return to the Sharks where he coached earlier in his career into serious doubt.

"The Golden Lions Rugby Union confirm they have met with John Mitchell and have discussed the relevant matters following his suspension earlier the season," CEO Ruben Moggee said in a statement. "John will join the team when they return for their pre-season next week."

Mitchell, who guided the Lions to the Currie Cup title last year but saw his side finish bottom of the South African conference in Super Rugby, had been suspended by the Lions and charged following complaints by the players about his training methods and management style.